Bone
Clavicle
Collarbone - the strut of the shoulder
High-yield
Most commonly fractured bone; typically breaks at the junction of the middle and lateral thirds. First bone to ossify, last to fuse.
Overview
An S-shaped long bone connecting the upper limb to the axial skeleton, holding the shoulder away from the trunk. It is the most commonly fractured bone.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- Long (atypical - no medullary cavity)
- Key landmarks
- Sternal (medial) end; Acromial (lateral) end; Conoid tubercle; Trapezoid line; Subclavian groove
- Articulations
- Sternum (sternoclavicular joint); Acromion of scapula (acromioclavicular joint)
Clinical correlation
Midshaft fracture: the lateral fragment drops (weight of limb) and the medial fragment elevates (sternocleidomastoid).
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the clavicle?
The clavicle is a long (atypical - no medullary cavity) bone.
What does the clavicle articulate with?
The clavicle articulates with the sternum (sternoclavicular joint); Acromion of scapula (acromioclavicular joint).
What are the key landmarks of the clavicle?
Key landmarks of the clavicle include the sternal (medial) end; Acromial (lateral) end; Conoid tubercle; Trapezoid line; Subclavian groove.